What to Know About Federal Office Closures in Government Shutdown

A partial government shutdown is now in effect. This follows a failure by Congress to pass necessary spending legislation before the midnight deadline. Essential services will continue, but many federal operations are suspending activities.

Hundreds of thousands of federal employees are facing furloughs. This means they are sent home without pay. The public will experience immediate disruptions to services and access to federal facilities.

Key Agencies and Services Affecting the Public

National parks and museums are among the most visible closures. According to The Washington Post, all Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo are closed to the public. Visitor centers, restrooms, and trash collection within national parks have also ceased, creating potential health and safety issues.

Critical health and research agencies are scaling back dramatically. Reuters reports that the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has paused new clinical trial patient admissions. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is operating with a skeleton crew, hindering its ability to respond to disease outbreaks.

Economic and Administrative Impact Widespread

The economic ripple effects are significant. The IRS has furloughed a large portion of its workforce. This will cause major delays in tax refund processing and taxpayer assistance services. Many Americans relying on timely refunds will be affected.

Federal contracting and data reporting are also on pause. Guidance from congressional offices confirms that new government contracts cannot be issued. Furthermore, key economic data releases from agencies like the Bureau of Labor Statistics will be delayed, creating uncertainty for businesses and financial markets.

The immediate effects of this political stalemate are clear. Widespread government shutdown closures are disrupting lives, slowing the economy, and limiting access to vital public services until a funding deal is reached.

Info at your fingertips

Which government offices are closed during the shutdown?

Non-essential offices are closed. This includes Smithsonian museums, national park visitor centers, and most IRS customer service and processing operations. Many administrative federal offices are also shuttered.

Are national parks completely closed?

No, but access is severely limited. Park lands and trails may remain accessible. However, visitor centers, restrooms, and all staffed services are closed, which can pose risks.

Is the IRS processing refunds during the shutdown?

No, tax refund processing is largely suspended. The IRS has furloughed most of its staff. Automated functions continue, but no refunds will be issued until funding is restored.

Will I still get my Social Security check?

Yes. Social Security and Medicare benefit payments are considered mandatory spending. These payments will continue as normal despite the shutdown.

Are air traffic controllers still working?

Yes, air traffic controllers are deemed essential personnel. They are required to work without pay. However, Reuters notes that FAA safety inspections and longer-term modernization projects are delayed.